R&M Data Center Handbook

www.datacenter.rdm.com
Methode B
Replacement of the MPO modules (type R) with MPO adapter plates (type B) and the LC Duplex patch cords with MPO
patch cords type B, female-female (left, right). The permanent link (type B, male-male) remains.
The upgrade from 40G to 100G
Finally, in the last step, 100G switches are installed. This requires the use of 24-fiber MPO cables. The existing
12-fiber connection (permanent link) can either be expanded with the addition of a second 12-fiber connection or
can be replaced with the installation of a 24 fiber connection.
Methode A
Capacity expansion for the MPO trunk cable (type A, male-male) with the addition of a second trunk cable; the MPO adapter
plates (type A) remain unchanged; the MPO patch cords are replaced with Y cables. (left: Y cable female-female type A; right: Y
cable female-female type B)
The MPO-24 solution - using one MPO-24 trunk cable (type A male-male); the MPO adapter plates (type A) remain unchanged.
The patch cords used are MPO-24 patch cords type A, female-female (left) and type B, female-female (right).
Methode B
Capacity expansion for the MPO trunk cable (type B, male-male) with the addition of a second trunk cable; the adapter plates
(type B) remain unchanged; the MPO patch cords are replaced with Y cables. (left, right: Y cable female-female type B)
The MPO-24 solution - using one MPO-24 trunk cable (type B male-male); the MPO adapter plates (type B) remain unchanged.
The patch cords used are MPO-24 patch cords type B, female-female (left, right).
Summary
Planners and managers at data centers face new requirements with the introduction of MPO components and
parallel optical connections. They will have to plan cable lengths carefully, select the right MPO types, keep
polarities in mind across the entire link and calculate attenuation budgets with precision. Short-term changes are
expensive and planning mistakes can be costly.
The changeover is worthwhile anyway, especially since technology will make it mandatory in the medium term. It
therefore makes sense to lay the groundwork early and at least adapt the passive components to meet the
upcoming requirements. Short installation periods, tested and verified quality for each individual component and
reliable operations and investments for years to come are the three big advantages that make the greater effort
and expense more than worthwhile.
Page 134 of 156 © 08/2011 Reichle & De-Massari AG R&M Data Center Handbook V2.0